Life-Threatening Thrombocytopenia Following Intravenous Contrast Media Infusion

Yonsei Med J. 2018 Jan;59(1):158-161. doi: 10.3349/ymj.2018.59.1.158.

Abstract

Radiocontrast media-induced acute severe thrombocytopenia is a very rare complication and potentially life-threatening. Here, we report the case of a 63-year-old male patient with severe acute thrombocytopenia following first exposure to intravenous non-ionic contrast media without immediate allergic reactions. His platelet count dropped from 107000/μL to 2000/μL after six hours of radiocontrast infusion. After administration of corticosteroid and transfusion of platelet concentrates, the platelet count returned gradually to normal within 5 days. To the best of our knowledge, non-ionic contrast media-induced isolated acute severe thrombocytopenia following no signs or symptoms of immediate allergic reaction has never been described.

Keywords: Thrombocytopenia; contrast media; hypersensitivity; non-ionic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage*
  • Contrast Media / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Platelet Count
  • Thrombocytopenia / etiology*

Substances

  • Contrast Media